Cambodia Investment Review
Cambodia’s capital witnessed the unveiling of the “My First Stock” exhibition at AEON Mall Phnom Penh, marking a significant stride in the country’s financial landscape. The four-day event, from November 16th to 19th, hosted under the high presidency of H.E. Dr. Hean Sahib, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Economy and Finance and Chairman of Cambodia Securities Exchange (CSX), along with other distinguished figures, represents the sixth edition of its kind, setting a new benchmark in Cambodia’s pursuit of a robust securities sector.
The event, also graced by H.E. Sou Socheat, Royal Government Delegate and Director General of the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia, and H.E. Hong Sokhour, Royal Government Delegate and CEO of CSX, showcased the collective efforts in promoting the Cambodian securities sector. The gathering attracted numerous national and international guests, including dignitaries, institutional investors, and representatives from the private sector, highlighting its significance in shaping Cambodia’s financial future.
Second-Generation Online Trading Account Opening System
One of the key highlights was the launch of the Second-Generation Online Trading Account Opening System. This groundbreaking initiative, interconnected with the Cambodia Data Exchange (CamDX) and the online investor identification system of the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia, promises to revolutionize the investor experience by providing immediate and automatic access to trading accounts.
H.E. Hong Sokhour elaborated on this development, aligning it with the Royal Government of Cambodia’s vision and marking it as a milestone in CSX’s evolution to CSX 3.0. This system, he noted, significantly reduces the time and complexity previously encountered by investors in obtaining an identification number and trading account, thereby fueling the growth of Cambodia’s securities market.
Furthermore, the exhibition announced a special promotion for new investors, including complimentary investor ID and account openings, coupled with a 50% brokerage commission discount valid until the end of 2023. This initiative is complemented by various entertainment offerings, including games with monetary and stock rewards, aiming to attract and educate potential investors.
Expressed Optimism About the Market’s Growth Trajectory
H.E. Sou Socheat underscored the stock market’s role as an essential investment channel, particularly for Cambodian citizens. He emphasized the opportunity to start small and gradually build a diversified investment portfolio, advising against using daily budgets for investment and instead leveraging savings.
Adding to this, H.E. Dr. Hean Sahip highlighted the CSX’s commitment to modernization and technological advancements in the securities sector. He referred to the successful launch of the “CSX Trade” mobile application in May 2022 as a step towards providing convenient and efficient trading experiences. The latest online trading system aligns with the digital era, signifying impressive progress in the Cambodian securities market.
Despite the current limitations in the number of listed companies and trading activities, H.E. Dr. Hean Sahip expressed optimism about the market’s growth trajectory. He accentuated the continuous development of new products and services, alongside extensive training and public information dissemination, as catalysts for sustainable growth. He exuded confidence that the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in the securities sector would lead to innovative strategies for stronger and more sustainable growth in the Cambodian Securities Exchange.
The “My First Stock” exhibition 2023, thus, stands as a testament to Cambodia’s burgeoning securities market, marking a new era of digital advancement and investor engagement, setting the stage for a dynamic and flourishing economic future.
